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Top bistros in Paris

Discover our guide to the top classic bistros in Paris. The French capital offers some of the world’s best restaurants, yet many venture to the capital in search of traditional, seasonal dishes that are more wholesome than haute cuisine. Here, we take a look at the top French bistros in Paris, which offer affordable, authentic cooking

Paris is the ultimate destination for the discerning gourmet. With so many restaurants, cafés, patisseries and enticing street markets, however, it can be hard to know where to begin. Here, Global Blue offers a guide to the best bistros in Paris for traditional, authentic dishes and local cuisine.

Josephine Chez DumonetThe district of Saint-Germain-des-Prés is often referred to as one of the most quintessentially Parisian areas of the French capital. With elegant apartment blocks, fine museums, designer boutiques and charming restaurants, it is a historic and affluent area. Josephine Chez Dumonet is a fitting addition to the neighbourhood, offering customers authentic and traditional dishes. The menu is typically French, with classic dishes including boeuf bourguignon, mushrooms stuffed with foie gras, and pigeon.

Bistrot Paul BertBistrot Paul Bert has built up an impressive reputation thanks to its simple, authentic menu. Situated in the 11th arrondissement, it has all the qualities of a classic bistro, offering homely interiors, excellent, honest food and great value. Many customers visit purely to try the steak tartare and signature côte de boeuf steak, and the impressive wine list and lively atmosphere make for a truly memorable evening.

Bistrot Paul Bert, 18 rue Paul Bert, 75011 Paris, +33 (0)1 4372 2401

Le BaratinRumoured to be the favourite restaurant of Inaki Aizpitarte, head chef at renowned restaurant Le Chateaubriand, Le Baratin is a hidden gem. With a strong local following, Le Baratin is an inviting and cosy bistro in the city’s 20th arrondissement. The fantastic French fare rivals that at some of the larger, more expensive restaurants in Paris, with menu highlights including roast lamb, Saint-Pierre fish and an enticing cheese board. With a great selection of wine and irresistible pricing, Le Baratin is a truly excellent find.

Le Baratin, 3 rue Jouye-Rouve, 75020 Paris, +33 (0)1 4349 3970

Le PantrucheChef Franck Baranger worked in some of the city’s best kitchens before setting up Le Pantruche. Located in the up-and-coming Pigalle district, the bistro is a perfect example of top French cooking and offers excellent value. The classic French menu features traditional dishes with a slight twist, such as free-range pork chop served on a bed of potato puree, or tender cod with tandoori spices and black truffle risotto.

Le Pantruche, 3 rue Victor Masse, 75009 Paris, +33 (0)1 4878 5560

AllardIn a city regarded as a culinary capital of the world, it can sometimes feel hard to find more traditional French fare among all the world-famous, cutting-edge restaurants. Allard has been serving traditional, authentic food since 1932. Celebrated chef Alain Ducasse took over the restaurant in 2013, retaining its menu of traditional French dishes. Highlights include snails, classic duck with olives, and frogs’ legs. Offering superb cooking, Allard has been one of the most sought-after gourmet addresses in Paris for over 80 years and proves that restaurants do not necessarily need to be Michelin-starred to create great appeal.